Description
Welcome to the cozy world of holiday baking! If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Cranberry Pistachio Snowball Cookies recipe is the perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter. With the delicate crunch of pistachios, the tartness of dried cranberries, and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies bring joy to any gathering. Let’s get baking and add a sprinkle of holiday cheer to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
Optional substitutions: For a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based butter. To make this recipe gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cranberries and Pistachios
Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. This ensures a balanced burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just beginning to turn golden.
Step 6: Powdered Sugar Coating
Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a second coating.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Chill the Dough: If the dough is sticky, chilling it for 15-20 minutes makes it easier to roll.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butter, pistachios, and cranberries make all the difference in flavor.
- Double-Coat for Extra Festivity: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar gives them a beautiful snowy look.